St. Louis delays vote on sweeping data center zoning rules after public pushback
St. Louis city officials have delayed a vote on new, comprehensive zoning regulations for data centers to consider public and developer feedback. The proposed framework aims to eliminate automatic approvals, categorize data centers, and impose restrictions like size caps and setbacks. Residents are pushing for mandatory community consent processes for data center projects.
St. Louis city’s Planning and Urban Design Agency recommended the Planning and Zoning Commission delay a scheduled vote on sweeping new data center zoning regulations. The decision follows a crowded public hearing where both residents and developers raised concerns about the proposed framework, which has been under development for months.
City Planner Miriam Keller emphasized that zoning is just one part of the city's strategy, with other regulations regarding distinct water rates and environmental monitoring also in progress. The updated framework defines micro, standard, and major data centers, aiming to eliminate "by right" allowances. Major data centers, drawing 30 megawatts or more, would be restricted to Industrial Zone K and prohibited within 600 feet of transit centers, homes, schools, or public parks. Additionally, a 500,000 square foot cap on development footprint is proposed.
Public feedback was divided. Many residents demanded mandatory community approval for data center projects, similar to those for homeless shelters or liquor licenses, arguing the current proposal still lacks sufficient resident consent. Conversely, some attendees felt the framework was too restrictive, even while supporting reasonable oversight, suggesting a more calibrated 300-foot buffer zone only for industrial areas. The commission plans to schedule a separate meeting to vote on whether to advance the regulatory framework to the Board of Aldermen for final approval.